Entomology

Insects can be important pests of crops, animals and people. General information about many of these pests common to all areas of California can be found through UC Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program (UC IPM) which publishes both pest management guidelines for important crops and pest notes for common pests of people and animals in home situations.

An important part of this program is helping individuals who live in Monterey or Santa Cruz County identify their pest problems. In order to do this, samples can be submitted to our office in person or by mail. Samples should be handled in such a manner that the specimen arrives in as good as condition as possible. This means the specimen should be protected in a plastic container or crush proof box. It is also important to keep specimens out of the direct sun and extreme heat.